Big Boost for SRH: Pat Cummins Cleared to Return in IPL 2026

In a major boost for Sunrisers Hyderabad, captain Pat Cummins has been cleared to feature in the IPL after fresh scans confirmed his back issue has been fully resolved.

The scans, conducted in Sydney on Wednesday, revealed that Cummins has made a complete recovery from the back stress injury that sidelined him since the Ashes late last year. The injury also ruled him out of the T20 World Cup that followed.

Cummins will be able to bowl without restriction and is scheduled to return to India on Friday (April 17) to rejoin the SRH squad, as reported earlier by Cricbuzz.

The Australian pace spearhead linked up with SRH at the start of the tournament and traveled to Kolkata for their second game before flying back to Australia for medical tests required to obtain his NOC from Cricket Australia.

In his absence, Ishan Kishan has been leading the side. SRH are currently placed fourth on the points table with two wins and three defeats.

It remains to be seen how quickly Cummins regains match readiness. SRH are slated to play Chennai Super Kings at home a day after Cummins joins (April 18), followed by a home game against Delhi Capitals on April 21.

Cummins had earlier stated his focus was entirely on recovering to be available for the “back half” of the IPL, and his return could provide the leadership and bowling firepower SRH need to solidify their playoff push.

                                               

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